Nicholas “Nick” H. Bax, a beloved son, brother, and dedicated sports fan, passed away peacefully at his home on Sunday, July 21, 2024, at the age of 29. Nick’s unexpected passing leaves a void in the hearts of his family, friends, and all who knew him. Born on December 23, 1994, in Jefferson City, Missouri, Nick was the son of Bruce and Michelle “Shelly” (Verslues) Bax.
Nick grew up with a passion for sports, proudly supporting his favorite teams: the St. Louis Cardinals, Kansas City Chiefs, St. Louis Blues, and his ultimate favorite, the Baltimore Ravens. His enthusiasm for sports was matched by his love for celebrating life’s moments with family and friends. Nick had a natural ability to bring people together, often organizing gatherings to play games and cards, creating cherished memories for all. His infectious enthusiasm and joy in life were palpable to everyone who had the pleasure of knowing him.
Nick was a 2013 graduate of Blair Oaks High School, where he was known not only for his academic achievements but also for his spirited involvement in school sports and events. He continued his education at Lincoln University, graduating in 2017. Following his academic achievements, he embarked on a career at Morris Packaging, where he had been employed since September 2017. Nick’s work ethic and dedication were evident in his professional life, earning him the respect and admiration of his colleagues.
Nick is survived by his parents, Bruce and Shelly Bax of Wardsville; his sister, Lauren Bax of Kansas City; his brother, Ethan Bax of Wardsville; his paternal grandmother, Esther Dalton of Jefferson City; and numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends. He was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents, Roger and Irma Verslues; paternal grandfather, David Bax; and paternal step-grandfather, James Dalton. Nick’s family and friends will gather to honor his memory and celebrate his life.
Visitation will be held from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 25, 2024, at Houser-Millard Funeral Directors. A Celebration of Nick’s Life will follow on Friday, July 26, 2024, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in the basement of the Wardsville Lions Club. A private family interment will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that expressions of sympathy be made to the Foundation for Sarcoidosis Research, honoring Nick’s memory through support for a cause he cared about.
Nick’s vibrant spirit and passion for life touched everyone around him. His love for sports, dedication to his family, and joy in simple pleasures will be fondly remembered by all who had the pleasure of knowing him. Nick’s legacy of enthusiasm and affection will continue to inspire and bring comfort to those who mourn his passing.
Nick’s friends and family have taken to social media to express their grief and share their fond memories. “Nick was the kind of person who could light up any room,” one friend shared. “His laughter was contagious, and his love for life was inspiring. He will be deeply missed.” These sentiments are echoed by many who knew Nick, highlighting the profound impact he had on those around him.
As the community comes together to honor Nick’s memory, they are reminded of the importance of cherishing every moment and the value of strong, supportive relationships. Nick’s passing is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring impact of a kind and generous spirit. His legacy will continue to guide and inspire those who knew him, ensuring that his contributions to the community and the lives he touched are never forgotten.
Nick’s dedication to his family was evident in everything he did. His parents, Bruce and Shelly, remember him as a loving and devoted son who always put his family first. “Nick was the heart of our family,” Shelly said. “He taught us the importance of love, kindness, and togetherness. His spirit will continue to guide us, and his memory will always be with us.”
Nick’s siblings, Lauren and Ethan, also shared their fond memories of their brother. “Nick was not just my brother, but my best friend,” Ethan said. “We shared so many adventures and laughs together. His absence leaves a void that can never be filled, but I will carry his memory with me always.” Lauren added, “Nick was always there for me, no matter what. His love and support were unwavering, and I will miss him more than words can express.”
Nick’s love for sports was a defining aspect of his life. Whether it was cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals, Kansas City Chiefs, St. Louis Blues, or his ultimate favorite, the Baltimore Ravens, Nick’s enthusiasm for his teams was infectious. He often organized gatherings to watch games, bringing together friends and family to share in the excitement. These gatherings were filled with laughter, camaraderie, and the joy of shared experiences, creating cherished memories for all.
Nick’s colleagues at Morris Packaging remember him as a dedicated and hardworking professional who brought positivity and enthusiasm to the workplace. “Nick was a valued member of our team,” one colleague shared. “His work ethic and dedication were truly commendable. He always had a smile on his face and was willing to lend a helping hand. He will be greatly missed.”
The outpouring of support from the community has been overwhelming. Friends, family members, and colleagues have come together to offer their condolences and support to Nick’s family during this difficult time. Fundraisers and support initiatives have been organized to assist the family with funeral expenses and other needs. The generosity and compassion shown by the community are a testament to the high regard in which Nick was held.
One of the ways the community plans to honor Nick’s legacy is by establishing a scholarship fund in his name. This scholarship will support local students who embody the same qualities that made Nick so special: kindness, generosity, and a commitment to community service. The scholarship will ensure that Nick’s legacy continues to inspire and support future generations.
In addition to the scholarship fund, a memorial sports event is being planned in Nick’s honor. This event will bring together local athletes and residents to celebrate Nick’s love for sports and his contributions to the community. It will be a fitting tribute to a young man who brought so much joy and enthusiasm to the sport.
Nick’s family is also planning to compile a book of memories and stories shared by friends and loved ones. This book will capture the essence of who Nick was and the impact he had on those around him. It will serve as a cherished keepsake that celebrates his life and the legacy he leaves behind.
The Jefferson City community’s response to Nick’s passing has been one of profound sorrow but also of unity and support. As people come together to mourn and remember, they also find strength in one another. Nick’s spirit will live on through the countless lives he touched, the memories shared, and the love that continues to surround his family.
Rest in peace, Nicholas “Nick” H. Bax. Your memory will forever be cherished by your family, friends, and community. The profound impact you made on the lives of those around you is a testament to the remarkable person you were. You will be deeply missed, but your legacy of kindness, generosity, and love will continue to inspire and uplift those who knew you.
As the community navigates this difficult time, they are reminded of the importance of cherishing every moment and the value of strong, supportive relationships. Nick’s passing is a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring impact of a kind and generous spirit. His legacy will continue to guide and inspire those who knew him, ensuring that his contributions to the community and the lives he touched are never forgotten.
In conclusion, the loss of Nicholas “Nick” H. Bax is a profound tragedy that has deeply affected the Jefferson City community. His dedication to his family, friends, and community, along with his warm personality and generous spirit, made him a beloved figure whose absence is keenly felt. The outpouring of support and love for Nick’s family is a testament to the high regard in which he was held and the lasting impact he had on those around him. As the community comes together to honor Nick’s memory and support his family, they ensure that his legacy of kindness and service will continue to inspire future generations. Rest in peace, Nick Bax. Your memory will forever be cherished, and your impact will never be forgotten
